Spinal Stenosis Definition

Spinal stenosis is a condition due to narrowing of the spinal cord causing nerve pinching which leads to persistent pain in the buttocks, limping, lack of feeling in the lower extremities, and decreased physical activity.1 More specifically, there are several different forms of lumbar spinal stenosis.

Common Types of Spinal Stenosis

The most common is degenerative stenosis, occurring in virtually the entire adult population as a result of the natural process of aging. It is a degenerative narrowing of the spinal canal, nerve root canals and/or intervertebral foramina caused by bone and/or ligament hypertrophy in local, segmental or generalized regions. The narrowing results in compression of spinal nerves and nerve roots, causing a constellation of symptoms, including lower back pain, neurogenic claudication and lower extremity pain.

Congenital Spinal Stenosis

Congenital lumbar stenosis is relatively rare and usually presents at an early age, often between 30 and 40. Acquired LSS is more common and generally develops when patients are in their 60s or older. It is a puzzling condition that can neither be predicted nor prevented. It does not distinguish by sex, race, or ethnicity. Nor is it associated with any particular occupation or any particular body type.